Councilor Weeden to co-host Citizens’ Speak Out Jan. 21

Thursday

Jan 10, 2013 at 3:15 AM

By Michelle Kingstonmkingston@fosters.com

DOVER — For the third time since he was elected, City Councilor Michael Weeden will host a Citizens’ Speak Out.

Co-hosting the meeting with Weeden will be Deputy Mayor Robert Carrier. Together, they hope to hear the public’s opinions on topics ranging from the Cocheco Waterfront Development, the proposed Jenny Thompson Aquatic Center to the upcoming budget season.

“These are important decisions that will shape the future of Dover,” Weeden said in a public statement. “I want to know how citizens feel about these issues, along with other important city matters.”

There is no time limit during the speak out, unlike citizens’ forum at council meetings. Weeden said this is so residents have adequate time to express their feelings and concerns. The additional time to hear out concerns, Weeden said, will help the councilors, overall, reach decisions.

Weeden’s first speak out session was in November 2011 with City Councilor Catherine Cheney. His second session was co-hosted with City Councilors Edward Spuler, Michael Crago and Catherine Cheney in Feb. 2012.

“It has been a while since I conducted one,” Weeden said in a public statement. “And I feel that this time of year presents an opportunity to reach out to the public before the upcoming teacher contracts and budget process.”

The Citizens’ Speak Out session will take place in Council Chambers in City Hall at 288 Central Ave. on Jan. 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.